REALM
H ami l to n Reac h #1 0 - Spr ing / Sum m er 2 0 2 1 FREE COPY | Fashion | Community | Proper ty | What's On | Ar ts & Culture
YOU'LL ALWAYS HAVE COMPANY WHEN THERE IS A VIEW TO ENJOY Marion Allard - Community Development Manager Frasers Property Australia
REALM
IN THIS ISSUE
4
Racecourse Road fashion trail
14
What’s on
10
8
Northshore Brisbane, the river city’s new home of innovation, culture and community
Unleash your creative self
16
18
3-Mile Race
From the history pages
E DITOR'S NOTE The arrival of spring always marks new beginnings, and at Hamilton Reach it really is the most spectacular season of the year. A time when the river and parklands come alive and embed themselves in our daily routines. In this edition of REALM, we take a walk down the original Brisbane Boulevard – Racecourse Road – and highlight the relationships we have with local retailers and small businesses who form part of the Hamilton Reach fabric. And we celebrate the events and people that bring us together as we look forward to making new connections as our community grows. Marion Allard Community Development Manager Frasers Property Australia
Want to chat? If you would like to discuss a great idea, an activity that could benefit from sponsorship, or a story for our next edition of REALM, drop me a line at communityqld@frasersproperty.com.au
To view this edition online or share with a friend. REALM | 3
FASHION
TH E ORI GI NAL BRISBANE B OULEVARD STANDING TH E T ES T OF TIME ACCORDING TO LOCAL FASHION STALWARTS JAN GOAKES, LAUREN HOLLAND AND IAN HARRISON, IT’S A SENSE OF COMMUNITY THAT BRINGS RACECOURSE ROAD BOUTIQUES, CAFÉS AND RESTAURANTS TOGETHER TO OFFER CUSTOMERS A UNIQUE AND REWARDING SHOPPING EXPERIENCE.
The trio are the respective owners of Racecourse Road’s
walking along the tree-lined boulevard, do a spot of shopping,
fashion institutions Savida, Joli Boutique and Harrison’s
run into a neighbour or two and grab a coffee or lunch. It’ll
Menswear. Collectively, the three stores have operated
never get old.”
along the famous strip for more than 70 years. “We have stood the test of time because we know our customers, our businesses refer each other, and we stock brands and provide an experience that you just can’t get at a major shopping centre,” Jan said. “Savida buys for its customers, not the masses. We offer a personalised service that builds trust and in turn, we have such loyal customers,” she added. “Some of our ladies have shopped with us for 28 years, following us to Racecourse Road from our previous home in Paddington.” Lauren, the owner of Joli Boutique agreed. “As a local, I have formed friendships with my customers, which allows me to learn and appreciate their personal style,” she said. “My collections are heavily influenced by my customers,
We asked Jan, Lauren and Ian what was trending this
and when the stock arrives from Europe, they are the first to
Spring Racing Carnival season. Here’s what they said.
know. I always get a kick out of running into someone in the community wearing one of my pieces.” As one of the longest serving menswear stores in Brisbane, Harrison’s has provided consistently beautiful menswear, while moving with the times. “Racecourse Road is one of Brisbane’s original boulevards and having been here for more than three decades, I’ve watched it shift as Brisbane has grown,” Ian said. “But one thing will never change, and that is the experience
Jan:
This season will be all about femininity, colour
and stunning florals.
Lauren: Linen, silk, cotton and broderie anglaise will all
heavily feature and pops of colour too – think
hot pink and red or mint green and lilac. These
hues will make a splash.
Ian:
Natural fibres and earthy tones will dominate
for the men, with a splash of colour for
Melbourne Cup.
you get shopping here. It’s such a pleasure to spend time
REALM | 4
FASHION
A DAY SPENT ON RACECOURSE ROAD IS A DAY WELL SPENT. TRAVERSE THE ORIGINAL BOULEVARD OF BRISBANE AND YOU WILL FEEL A SENSE OF COMMUNITY WHILE SHOPPING AND DINING IN STYLE.
THE FACIAL HUB
JOLI BOUTIQUE
5 BOROUGHS
150 ASCOT
Catering for both men and women, this popular salon uses only natural, organic, vegan and cruelty-free skincare, makeup and treatments across its services.
Classic with a fashionable twist, the latest collections from Europe adorn the intimate store, with one of a kind millinery from a local maker complementing the boutique’s spring racewear.
A neighbourhood favourite inspired by the tastes of New York, this popular eatery serves up hand crafted burgers, NY style sandwiches, wings and tacos among an extensive menu that’s great for refuelling…and leaving you in a New York state of mind.
If the modern yet relaxed atmosphere tempts you inside, the cracking wine list and foodie menu will make you stay for the long haul. The perfect destination for a long lunch and a beautiful venue for group events.
R AC E C O KIN
URSE R D
GSF ORD SMI R TH D
PETRICHOR & CO
Let the exotic aromas of Colombia and Latin America entice you in and start your day with a unique coffee experience. Seasonal and nutritious food offerings including gluten-free and vegan dishes might keep you there for breakfast.
MILANI HOUSE OF
SAVIDA
HARRISON’S
GELATO
Style and comfort is paramount and customers are treated like princesses. Their individual style and unique needs are catered for in this Ascot institution, a European shoe-lovers mecca.
Offering exceptional style and tailoring services on Racecourse Road since 1986, it’s little wonder Harrison’s has a reputation for guaranteed quality.
With over 40 flavours of homemade gelato, this popular spot is open late for all your dessert dreams to come true.
REALM | 5
MENSWEAR
COMMUNITY
M E E T T HE NEWEST KID ON THE B LOCK HAMILTON REACH COMMUNITY WELCOMES YOUNGEST RIVERLIGHT RESIDENT
“Everyone loves a baby,” says new mum Kylie as she bounces Hamilton Reach’s youngest resident, 15-week-old Rome, on her knee. It’s the warm smiles from her neighbours in the lift and on her walks along the river while Rome chats away in his pram that have helped to nurture special feelings of community. And while Kylie and her partner Robert have called Riverlight Apartments home for the past two years, as FIFO workers they haven’t always been able to fully enjoy the continuous connection to home that Kylie is now revelling in.
With Robert now back working FIFO in the mines, he keeps
The professional tyre fitter – who operates specialised
in touch with his young family with regular video calls
machinery to expertly fit four-tonne tyres to mining vehicles
throughout the day.
in Moranbah – is now learning the ropes of motherhood.
Living at Riverlight makes the juggle easier for Kylie. The
“I’ve worked in the mines for many years now and being a
connection to people, parklands and the river, the ease of
FIFO worker can make it hard to meet people,” says Kylie.
access from her car to her apartment and her favourite
“So Robert and I were very lucky to find each other and
spots for lunch.
experience parenthood for the first time together. “Rome arrived four weeks early, he was so tiny. It’s hard to believe he’s starting to teethe now. I’m really loving this age. I’m looking forward to all of it.”
“We’ve always loved the Breakfast Creek Hotel, I even had my baby shower there and we know the staff well,” said Kylie. “Now when we go there with Rome, Sue – who has worked there for more than 20 years – is the first to take him for a cuddle while we have lunch. It’s really lovely. “At home, everyone always says hello when I’m out exploring the parks and river walks with Rome. “While I’ve joined a local mother’s group, I’d also really love to connect with some other mums in Hamilton Reach.”
IF YOU SPOT KYLIE AND BABY ROME IN THE COMMUNITY, POP OVER AND SAY HI! THEY WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU.
REALM | 6
PROPERTY
LI F E S T YLE ON DISPL AY THE HAMILTON REACH LIFESTYLE IS ON DISPLAY AT RIVERLIGHT NORTH, WITH THE FINAL PENTHOUSE NOW OPEN FOR INSPECTION.
Completed in July, Riverlight North is the ultimate riverside retreat where spacious, stylish apartments and generous alfresco areas frame city, river and hinterland views. Frasers Property Australia Development Director, Jamisen Rivera, said the final property is a penthouse presenting 158sqm of refined living with three-bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a multi-purpose room and oversized 17sqm balcony. Priced at $1.7 million the future home owner will benefit from striking river and Royal Queensland Golf Club views, it is the last remaining penthouse available in the building. “Basking in the morning sun and taking in those beautiful vistas is one of the biggest drawcards with this special
private recreation spaces including a 20-metre lap pool,
home,” Jamisen says.
barbecue zones, sensory garden, free bike hire and a fully
“It's a true entertainer's delight. The welcoming layout can
equipped gymnasium.”
cater for large celebrations with your nearest and dearest, but
“Residents also have access to private poolside function and
it's also a place where you can retreat and escape the hustle
dining areas.”
and bustle of the city. The exceptional design quality and
For more information call Frasers Property on 13 38 38.
craftsmanship of the residences within Riverlight North are
Alternatively, visit riverlight.com.au to learn more today
complemented by 1,700sqm of landscaped gardens and
REALM | 7
ARTS & CULTURE
U N LEAS H YOUR C R E AT I VE SEL F HAMILTON REACH RESIDENTS ENJOY LOCAL ART ON THEIR DOORSTEP THIS NOVEMBER WITH AN EXHIBITION AND WORKSHOP BY SCULPTORS QUEENSLAND, SUPPORTED BY FRASERS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA.
While the Queensland Government’s construction works continue along MacArthur Avenue, a mini exhibition at the Hamilton Reach Sales & Display Centre replaced this year's Sculpture by the River. Last year's incredibly popular event saw sculptures of all sizes displayed along the river and in The Shed, with several residents snapping up pieces of river-inspired art. This year's alternate event has again featured some of South-East Queensland's best sculptors, including Claudje Lecompte, whose most recent work captures the native wildlife returning to her property in the Scenic Rim, and Jan Williams, who specialises in figurative, abstract sculpture. Residents had the chance to hear directly from the artists during a one-hour session when the exhibition opened. Hamilton Reach residents also had the opportunity to get hands-on and took home their own art under the guidance of an expert sculptor at our recent sculpture workshop.
SCULPTURE BY THE RIVER IS SUCH A POPULAR EVENT, SO IT'S FANTASTIC TO CONTINUE THAT PRESENCE FOR ARTISTS IN SOME WAY THIS YEAR
The Bronzed Piping Frog - one of 2020's popular sculptures exhibited at Hamilton Reach's sales office.
Sculptors Queensland is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation promoting the appreciation and creation of
Sculptors Queensland Exhibition Coordinator Ollie Hardt said the event is a great opportunity for local artists and residents alike.
sculpture in our state. Come along and show your support for these talented artists.
"Sculpture by the River is such a popular event, so it's fantastic to continue that presence for artists in some way this year," he said. “I expect it will just continue to grow each year thanks to such an
Visit Hamilton Reach Sales & Display Centre daily, from 10am to 5pm to view Sculptors Queensland’s exhibition, from ten talented artists until November 30
amazing response from the community."
Opposite Top: Jan Williams, Life at the Cafe Opposite Left: Ollie Hardt, Amphitrite shoe Opposite Right: Claudje Lecompte, Sentinel I & II
REALM | 8
ARTS & CULTURE
A SNEAK PEEK ON THE 2021 SCULPTURE BY THE RIVER EXHIBITION, CURRENTLY ON DISPLAY AT THE HAMILTON REACH SALES & DISPLAY CENTRE FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER.
REALM | 9
COMMUNITY
TH E NEW HO ME O F I N N OVAT ION, CULTURE AN D C OMM UNIT Y NORTHSHORE BRISBANE HAS CEMENTED ITS CREDENTIALS AS ONE OF THE RIVER CITY’S NEW ENTERTAINMENT PRECINCTS, RECENTLY HOSTING A SLATE OF BRISBANE FESTIVAL EVENTS IN SEPTEMBER.
Thousands of people visited over the 22-day festival to immerse themselves, connect, be inspired, and enjoy the river as a stage for captivating art, music, conversation, and events. As the largest waterfront urban renewal project in Queensland, the burgeoning site will be transformed over the next 30 years, from an old wharf into a hive of activity. Northshore Precinct Manager Wendy Brewster said “The redeveloped premier waterfront destination would be home to dining and retail outlets and a program of events and entertainment sure to surprise and delight residents and visitors.”
“The secret is out with more and more families enjoying the well-equipped Hercules Street Park, locals using the walking tracks and beach area, and visitors soaking up the incredible river views,” Wendy said. “Event organisers are also drawn to the central location, versatile spaces, accessibility, amenities, easy parking and public transport options and nearby attractions such as Portside and Eat Street.” Brisbane Festival’s decision to program premiere productions at Northshore Brisbane follows the success of two other major events: the Day For It Festival in April and The Winter Village from June to August.
REALM | 10
LIFESTYLE
NORTHSHORE BRISBANE
W H AT ’S N EW
TH E SHE D A ND WOR KS H OP S
M ARIT IM E GRE E N AND PE RF ORM AN C E SPAC ES
RECEIV E FAC E L IFT
The new landscaped public space is due to open in early 2022 and will open a section of river after 150 years of wharf activity in this location.
The Shed was upgraded to offer a fit-for-purpose town hall and event space for Northshore businesses, tenants, and community members to use for exhibitions and intimate performances as well as weddings and milestone birthday parties. Hamilton Reach Community Association President John Ryan said residents were impressed with the raw potential of the new spaces with the Association already planning to hold its inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) in The Shed in December.
Maritime Green will provide locals and visitors with a green space and performance spaces that take in views of the city and across wide-open waters to Colmslie Beach. Bookings are being taken for markets and performances from early 2022.
“We’re really excited to see this area develop with purpose and so happy that years of planning are paying off with a precinct and facilities that cater to the diverse needs of our community,” Mr Ryan said. “Until now, we haven’t had the space to meet as a community and we intend to use the space for events including fundraising nights, community Christmas events and as a weatherproof venue for social activities like arts and craft classes.” Having started life as a shipping maintenance shed, The Shed upgrade includes a new entrance, additional bathroom facilities, storage, new kitchen and catering facilities and enhanced audio-visual technology. Huge rear doors open to a regenerated outdoor space screened with timber from the original wharves.
Right: Artist impression of Northshore Maritime Green and Performance Spaces REALM | 11
LOCAL
NORTHSHORE BRISBANE
WH AT ’S ON VA N GOG H ALIV E 29 October 2021 – 22 January 2022 Van Gogh Alive is the most visited and talked about multi-sensory experience in the world, combining Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings with a surround-sound digital soundtrack. Visitors to this immersive art experience bathe themselves in a symphony of light, colour and sound and are transported to another place and time to become part of the post-impressionist artist’s world. Van Gogh Alive examines the work of the great Dutch artist between 1880 and 1890 in what critics describe as a “combination of art, culture, science and history”. Van Gogh Alive is housed in a custom-built gallery at Northshore Hamilton. Book your tickets via vangoghalive.com.au
REALM | 12
LOCAL
W E D D INGS , PARTIES, EV E RY T HING NORTHSHORE HARBOUR CAFÉ HAS UNDERGONE AN EXCITING TRANSFORMATION, WELCOMING NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF RAUL HINKSON, A DELICIOUS NEW MENU AND ELEGANT FITOUT – PERFECT FOR BREAKFAST, BRUNCH OR LUNCH AND THE IDEAL VENUE FOR YOUR NEXT PRIVATE FUNCTION.
Pivotal to the changes is the café’s desire to become a more integral part of the community, says Venue Manager Elle Clifton. “In addition to our great new menu, we have curated a small pantry fully stocked with a fantastic range of locally made goodies and giftware. “We have also partnered with River to Bay, which runs a fleet of modern, fast boats that connect day trippers to the best spots along the Brisbane River and into Moreton Bay. “Through this partnership we are able to provide locals with
Northshore Harbour Café can be found at
exclusive dining and drinking options, either before or after
285 MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton. Open Tuesday
departure from the Hamilton Northshore Public Pontoon,
to Sunday from 7:00am to 3:00pm (kitchen closes at
located just steps from the café.”
2:00pm).
FIVE MINUTES WITH NORTHSHORE HARBOUR CAFÉ’S NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF RAUL HINKSON ON HIS INSPIRATION BEHIND THE NEW MENU introduced share plates for exactly
local business and Northshore's
that reason. The Antipasti Platter and
commitment to the community.
Lemon Pepper Fried Calamari have been a hit already. Perfect for those
What else is new on the menu?
in between times or when you need to
We have introduced some new dishes
leave room for dessert!
like the Three Cheese Potato Hash
What inspires you when composing What has influenced you in creating
new dishes?
Northshore Harbour Café’s new menu?
As a chef, there is nothing more
Northshore Harbour Café shares a real
rewarding than seeing people enjoying
sense of community. It’s a fantastic
the food I make. The new menu
place for people to catch up, share a
inspiration comes from my passion for
delicious meal and enjoy each other’s
fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Not
company. Our new menu aims to
only does this ensure each meal is of
foster these connections and we have
the highest quality, but it also supports
REALM | 13
Benedict for breakfast and the Asian Fish Tacos for lunch. Kids have their own special menu with classics like Buttermilk Pancakes and Mini Cheeseburgers. I just love our family friendly location too. With all the green space surrounding the café and adjacent playground equipment, parents can linger a little longer while the kids go and play.
EVENTS
C OM MUNIT Y E VE N T S HAMILTON REACH RESIDENTS ARE COMMITTED IN BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER, HOSTING EVENTS FOR RESIDENTS TO ENCOURAGE FRIENDSHIP AND HELP THOSE IN NEED.
Co-organiser and Hamilton Reach resident Carla Moretti said it was a positive way to bring the community together. "The scarves brought a bit of colour and brightness to the cold season, and it was such a joy to see the smiles they bring to people's faces," she said. "Importantly, the initiative gave people something meaningful to do during COVID-19 restrictions. The chance to check in with others and contribute to the community was a source of comfort for many. RESIDENTS WARM UP FOR WINTER
This year marked the second year of Warm up for Winter, an initiative of the Hamilton Happenings resident volunteer
"The pandemic can feel incredibly isolating, so we've been working hard to grow the community connections within Hamilton Reach and beyond."
group inspired by an annual installation at the National
The winter donation will also make an enormous difference
Arboretum in Canberra. It was supported by Councillor for
to Brisbane's homeless community.
Hamilton Ward David McLachlan, Queensland Member for Clayfield Tim Nicholls MP and Frasers Property Australia. The local community, neighbours from Aveo Clayfield and friends in Victoria came together in an outstanding effort to create nearly 170 beautiful scarves, that were wrapped around trees in the park and surrounding areas. The scarves have now been donated to Brisbane City Council's Homeless
"It's heart-warming to see the incredible amount of donations received during this initiative that will go a long way to helping those less fortunate," Carla said. "We delivered 22 boxes in time for Homelessness Week this year, which is an outstanding effort that is very much appreciated."
Connect program along with handmade beanies, warm blankets and clothing. COMING UP
TWILIGHT PICNIC EVENT RETURNS
Following the success of last year’s inaugural Twilight
Bring your picnic blankets and join your friends and
Picnic at Northshore Riverside Park, the Hamilton
neighbours as the park comes to life with food trucks,
Reach Community Association is preparing to host
market stalls and entertainment.
another spectacular evening event on Saturday 27 November.
Activities will commence from 4.00pm and will conclude at 10.00pm. For more information, visit hamiltonreach.com.au/events.
REALM | 14
EVENTS
CHRISTMAS IN JULY
The Hamilton Happenings volunteer group also hosted a Christmas in July morning tea; an idea that came about during a monthly book club meeting. This event was organised by local residents Sheila Wyldbore and Carla Moretti, supported by Cr David McLachlan and sponsored by Frasers Property Australia. Residents came together in the park while the sun was out to celebrate and offer another chance to bring the community together. Around 40 people decked themselves in Christmas finery and enjoyed plenty of homemade baked goods. Children were encouraged to decorate gingerbread men kindly donated by Shaun from Hamilton Espresso. "It was lovely to see so many people get into the spirit, despite some heavy winds," said co-organiser Sheila Wyldbore. "Special thanks to our supporters, as well as Frances, Bec and Marion for their generous baking and assistance."
RIVERLIGHT LOUNGE HOSTS WEEKLY MAHJONG
Hamilton Reach residents are invited to join the weekly Mahjong group every Tuesday 10:00am-12:00pm in the Riverlight Lounge, one of the many amenities that benefits residents. Organiser Elisha Matthews said it's the perfect opportunity for everyone from beginners to experts to socialise in a relaxed environment close to home. "After a lockdown last year, a few people were crafting by the beach and talking about what we missed doing," she said. "Several of us hoped community Mahjong groups would return, but many were still facing restrictions or other challenges, so we organised our own weekly game. "Now, we regularly have at least eight people, and I coach a few of the newer players. It's turned into a chance for us to
The group is also arranging a Saturday night
see others when we may be socialising less, and it’s something
social event for those who are unable to make
we can look forward to each week too."
Tuesdays. For more information contact communityQLD@frasersproperty.com.au.
REALM | 15
WHAT'S EVENTS ON
ROWI NG C OMES HO ME TO H A MILT O N HAMILTON REACH HAS TIPPED ITS HAT TO AUSTRALIA’S RICH ROWING HISTORY, HOSTING THE ANNUAL 3 MILE RACE BETWEEN PINKENBA AND NORTHSHORE RIVERSIDE PARK IN EARLY SEPTEMBER.
The iconic 3 Mile Race is a tribute to one of Australia’s oldest and most celebrated rowing competitions, the King’s Cup, and is generously supported by Frasers Property Australia. Event organiser and Olympian Dr Michael Toon said the test of endurance is right at home in Hamilton. “Hamilton Reach was the birthplace of Australian rowing 100 years ago, so it’s wonderful to have brought racing back to the Brisbane River,” he said. “Unlike other rowing events, the river here is wide and has so many great vantage points for spectators – you can follow the entire event from your bike or watch from one of the many parks along the way. Olympian Ria Thompson bringing home the 3 Mile Race
“The area also has great significance for rowing in Queensland and enables rowers to reconnect with a historic course that was
“It has now become a major rowing event in its own right
unused for a long time.
and an opportunity to celebrate and develop Queensland’s exceptional rowing talent.”
“It’s part of Hamilton’s history. Three years ago, this race commemorated the 80th anniversary of the last time
Dr Toon was cox of the Australian eight that won bronze
Queensland won the King’s Cup, right here at Hamilton Reach
at the 2004 Athens Olympics. He has competed in a record
in 1939.
12 King’s Cup campaigns for Queensland and is working tirelessly to help break one of the longest winning droughts in Australian sport. He and a committee of similarly dedicated supporters created the 3 Mile Race in 2019 as the ‘Inaugural Queensland King’s Cup Trial Eights Match Race’ to develop Queensland’s rowing talent and bring victory back to the state. “The Brisbane 2032 Olympics is a huge win for rowing and we have many fantastic Olympians developing our rowers of the future here. “I’m thrilled that the Hamilton community can be a part of that.” If you want to learn more about the 3 Mile Race history,
Olympian Dr Michael Toon, 3 Mile Race event organiser
visit www.3milerace.com.au.
REALM | 16
EVENTS
DI D YO U KNOW? Olympians Caitlin Cronin and Ria Thompson competed on the day, who were recently awarded a Bronze Medal in Tokyo. Caitlin is a Brisbane local and as an All Hallows’ School alumni, she is the second Olympic oarswoman and the first to take out a medal from the school. Congratulations Caitlin and Ria, you have made Australia very proud!
REALM | 17
COMMUNITY
R I C H HIST ORY O F H A M I LT ON L IBRARY ORIGINALLY BUILT AS THE HAMILTON TOWN HALL IN 1920, THE HAMILTON LIBRARY LOCATED ON THE CORNER OF RACECOURSE ROAD AND ROSSITER PARADE TODAY STANDS AS ONE OF BRISBANE’S EIGHT REMAINING TOWN HALLS CONSTRUCTED IN THE TWENTIETH CENTURY.
When the Hamilton Town Council was disbanded in 1925, the building became the property of the Brisbane City Council and had various uses including as a Council Depot and as a School of Arts. Interestingly, the building was headquarters for the Australian Army Survey Corps during World War Two. After the war, major alterations were made to the Council Chambers to create the Hamilton Municipal Library, which has been in operation since 1948. The original 'Reliance' strongroom with steel doors remains in working order. Today the library remains a popular community facility which is more than just a place to borrow books. Whether you’re
Photo courtesy of Brisbane Images, Brisbane City Council, BCC-B54-54
looking to connect with others, study, learn something new or find something old – Hamilton Library offers a range of free
digital literacy programs as well as fun and free activities for
services for the local community.
children during the school holidays.
Pick up a copy of What’s On in Libraries, your bi-monthly guide
The library is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from
to upcoming programs and events including monthly ‘morning
10am until 5pm, Wednesday 1pm until 6pm and
of mystery’ trivia events, books clubs, children’s literacy and
Saturday 9am until 4pm.
W HAT’S ON AT HA M ILTON L IBRARY HAMILTON LIBRARY HOSTS REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS FOR BOTH ADULTS AND CHILDREN.
Morning of mystery
Check out the library’s event calendar for a program
Every third Friday of the month 9-10am. Bookings required.
of events over the summer school holidays, or pick
One on one tech help
up a printed copy of the What’s On booklet.
Tech assistance for troubleshooting technical issues,
Hamilton Library
developing digital skills and improving online confidence.
36 Racecourse Rd, Ascot QLD 4007
Hamilton happy readers
07 3403 1050
Held every fourth Wednesday between 12pm and 1pm. First 5 Forever Babies Books & Rhymes Thursdays at 9.30am First 5 Forever Toddler Time
https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/things-to-see-and-do/ council-venues-and-precincts/libraries/library-locations/ hamilton-library
Tuesdays at 9.30am
REALM | 18
RESIDENT
5 M I NUT ES WITH L O C AL FR A NC ES CO L L INS WHEN FRANCES COLLINS RELOCATED FROM ASCOT TO ATRIA SOUTH IN HAMILTON REACH FOUR YEARS AGO, SHE COULD NOT ANTICIPATE THE DEPTH OF COMMUNITY SPIRIT AND BEAUTIFUL FRIENDSHIPS SHE WOULD FORGE. THE MOTHER OF FIVE AND GRANDMOTHER OF FIVE IS A MUCH-LOVED PART OF THE HAMILTON REACH COMMUNITY, WHOSE PERSONALITY SHINES AS BRIGHTLY AS HER TRADEMARK RED LIPSTICK.
What were your first impressions of Hamilton Reach?
THE CITYCATS ARE BY FAR THE LOVELIEST WAY TO TRAVEL. THERE ARE NO HASSLES WITH PARKING OR TRAFFIC TO WORRY ABOUT.
I had no expectations when I moved here in 2017. I’m in my seventies and I’ve lived in lots of places, most recently in Ascot for some years. I have been absolutely bowled over by everything that happens here. The whole lifestyle is beautiful, and the
I love to jump on the ferry and wander up to Newstead
people are very caring and community minded. Everybody
Providore in Teneriffe. They know me now and during
pulls together to help. It really is quite unique.
COVID-19 they have made meals for me so I don’t have to go to the supermarket very often and can stay safe. However, if
What is it about the community spirit here that you
you need a supermarket Gasworks is just a little bit further on.
love most?
What are your favourite local spots and why?
You can enjoy your own privacy, or you can join in the many activities held here. There’s no pressure, you decide what you want to do.
Racecourse Road is a very special place nearby. It’s like a beautiful country village, in a city. People there are more than
I made a promise to myself to get up, put my lipstick on and
shop owners – they’re part of our community and the friendly
go out to buy my coffee each morning. I bump into many
care and support they provide adds to the joy of living at
people when I’m walking – some may nod, others smile or
Hamilton Reach. It’s worth a stroll to discover the many
stop for a chat. Most of the friendships I’ve formed here
special shops and services close by.
started that way, on my walks or through our great book club. You recently helped raise money for the Cancer Council – How has the river become part of your daily life?
tell us more.
Ever since I was a young child, I have wanted to live by the
The Cancer Council is an important charity to me, and I was
water. Back then, I dreamed of living by the Pacific Ocean!
delighted to take part in our ‘Biggest Morning Tea’ fundraiser in
However, the Brisbane River has become very special too.
July. Shaun at Hamilton Espresso offered to host it at his venue,
There are lovely walks along the river, through the parklands
which was perfect. In addition to all the home made treats we
down to Portside.
baked, Shaun donated loads of pastries and sold most of the raffle tickets. He had all his staff on board that day which was an incredible help. We had so much support from the local Hamilton and Ascot businesses who donated the raffle prizes. However, what made it a successful, fun day was the support from our amazing local community who helped raise approximately $1,400. This community spirit is what makes living at Hamilton Reach so special. REALM | 19
Your oasis on Brisbane’s riverfront Visit the Sales & Display Centre today at 310 MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton. @hamiltonreach | 13 38 38 | hamiltonreach.com.au